The Steelers are No. 1 in the league in total defense — allowing nearly 20 yards per game fewer than any other team — passing defense and, perhaps more importantly, yards allowed in the second half and the fourth quarter, when games often are decided.

They struggled early in the season to close out games, giving up leads and a lot of fourth-quarter yardage to the Raiders, Broncos and Titans — 135 yards alone to Tennessee. But teams simply aren’t moving the ball against them in the final 15 minutes; they allowed only 12 yards in each of the Ravens games, and they held the Giants to minus-9 yards.

Not to make excuses, but the Steelers were going through some heavy change over along with some key injuries to start the season. It isn't a surprised that they struggle to start the season. I was probably more upset with the offense as they had all the pieces in place to hold the team afloat till the defense rounded into form.

Its funny how the offense constantly gets a pass, but the defense isn't afforded that same luxury. Big Ben for years has be downgraded by outside sources because they continually stated that Big Ben can't win without a dominate defense. Well to start the season that was exactly the case and the offense continued to stall late in games.

The defense did have it shortcoming to start the season. But fans make it seem as they were the may catalyst for the Steelers being 2-3._________________